Mobile coffee outlet at Upper Beeding Pharmacy, High Street, Upper Beeding

What was proposed

The application proposed a raised platform for a mobile coffee outlet, a timber storage structure and outdoor seating.

“The application seeks full planning permission for the formation of a raised area for the siting of a mobile coffee outlet, together with the erection of a small timber storage structure and the provision of external seating space.”

Officer report

The site

The site is a 24-square-metre cleared area in a paddock behind a listed pharmacy, within the conservation area and Flood Zone 3.

“The application site comprises a small parcel of land located to the rear of Upper Beeding Pharmacy, High Street, Upper Beeding, within the Upper Beeding Conservation Area. The site forms part of the paddock associated with the Grade II listed building that accommodates the pharmacy at ground floor level with residential accommodation above.”

“The application area is situated toward the south-eastern corner of the paddock and comprises a relatively small, cleared area of approximately 24m² adjacent to the public footpath that runs alongside the River Adur. The surrounding land is predominantly open paddock with areas of landscaping and recent ancillary buildings approved under previous planning permissions.”

Officer report

Earlier site permissions

Earlier permissions covered tree works, mixed paddock uses, buildings, residential alterations and associated details.

“DC/21/2374 Change of use of the land to a mixed use for incidental residential amenity space and the staging of occasional live theatre productions and associated activities. Amendments to landscaping, demolition of the existing garage and erection of a detached garage building. Erection of a pitched roof over the existing Studio building, and erection of a workshop building.”

“DC/23/1770 Demolition of existing lean-to structures to the north, east, and south elevations, and erection of infill extensions. Erection of a single storey rear elevation and sub-division of existing dwelling to create 1No. 3 bedroom and 1No. 2 bedroom dwellings, and associated external and internal alterations. Removal of existing stairs and installation of replacement stairs to serve existing attic space. Repair and replacement windows and minor roof repairs.”

Officer report

Public views

Sixteen addresses objected over parking, appearance, noise, privacy and commercialisation; 22 supported the business, recreation and community benefits.

“The High Street already experiences significant parking pressure, particularly for residents. • The proposal may attract additional visitors and vehicles, increasing congestion and illegal parking, including in nearby private car parks. • Visibility near the bridge and narrow streets raises highway safety concerns. • The site lies within the South Downs National Park / Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, where development should conserve the landscape.”

“The coffee stall is seen as a valued local business providing artisan coffee and locally sourced products. • Eco-friendly practices and community focus. • The venue could become a community meeting point and social hub for residents. • The business is missed after closing its previous location. • The location on the riverside path would provide a rest stop for walkers, cyclists, kayakers and visitors. • It may encourage outdoor recreation and tourism in the area.”

Officer report

Public speakers

Two members of the public spoke in support of the application.

Committee discussion

Members discussed encouraging use of the river walks and supporting local commerce.

“Members noted the planning history of the application.”

“The Committee discussed the merits of encouraging use of the river walks and supporting local commerce.”

Minutes

The vote

The application was approved in accordance with the officer recommendation, and two ward members did not vote.

“[As Ward Members for Bramber, Upper Beeding and Woodmancote Councillor Mike Croker and Councillor Roger Noel did not vote on this application]”

“That DC/25/1766 be approved in accordance with officer recommendation.”

Minutes

Approval conditions

The approval included conditions covering refuse storage, privacy screening, materials, lighting, use, opening hours and deliveries.

“3 Pre-Occupation Condition: No part of the development hereby permitted shall be occupied or be first used until details for the provision for the storage of refuse and recycling facilities have been submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority. These facilities shall be provided prior to first use of the development hereby permitted and thereafter be retained for use at all times.”

“9 Regulatory Condition: No deliveries (arrival /dispatch) for the development hereby approved shall take place outside of 08:00 hours to 17:30 hours each day Monday to Saturday and 09:30 hours to 16:30 hours each day, no deliveries on Sundays and Bank /public Holidays.”

Officer report